Switzerland is known for its stable economy, transparent tax system, and favorable environment for the development of small and medium-sized businesses. For Ukrainians who came to this country due to the war or other circumstances, entrepreneurship is not only a way to earn a living but also an important stage of integration into society.

However, the path to starting a business in Switzerland is framed by clear legal rules. Opportunities depend on the type of residence permit, financial guarantees, and cantonal regulations.

Why Ukrainians Choose Entrepreneurship

The Swiss labor market is highly competitive: official employment often requires recognition of diplomas, work experience, or knowledge of the local language. In such conditions, starting one’s own business becomes an alternative path.

For many Ukrainians, entrepreneurship means:

• financial independence;
• faster integration into a new environment;
• an opportunity to realize their ideas and skills;
• creating additional jobs for fellow compatriots.

Switzerland supports small businesses through consulting programs, simplified registration, and a clear tax system, making it attractive for startups.

Which Permits Open the Path to Business

The possibility of starting a business directly depends on the type of residence permit:

• Permit C (Niederlassungsbewilligung)

The most favorable status. Holders of C are practically equal to Swiss citizens in the right to open a business. No additional approvals are required.

• Permit B (Aufenthaltsbewilligung)

Issued to those who have a long-term employment contract or other residence grounds. Holders of B can also register a business, though sometimes the canton may require proof of financial capacity or a business plan. Overall, B provides real opportunities for entrepreneurship.

• Permit S (temporary protection for Ukrainians)

Grants the right to work, including self-employment. However, to start a business, special approval from cantonal authorities is required. The holder of S must prove that the business project is viable and will not lead to dependency on social assistance.

• Permit F (vorläufig aufgenommene Ausländer)

Provisionally admitted foreigners. Theoretically, business registration is possible, but the procedure is complex, and the decision depends on the canton.

Thus, the most favorable conditions are for C and B holders, while for S and F the path to business is possible only after additional approval from the authorities.

Forms of Business in Switzerland

Those eligible for entrepreneurship can choose different legal forms:

• Einzelfirma (sole proprietorship)

The simplest form for freelancers or small businesses. If annual turnover is below 100,000 CHF, registration in the Handelsregister is not mandatory, but social contributions and taxes must still be paid. If turnover exceeds 100,000 CHF, registration and VAT payment become obligatory.

• GmbH (limited liability company)

Suitable for small and medium-sized businesses. Requires at least 20,000 CHF in share capital. The main advantage is limited liability, meaning personal assets are protected.

• AG (public limited company)

Used for larger businesses. Requires 100,000 CHF in share capital, with at least 50,000 CHF paid at registration.

All business forms have obligations: bookkeeping, tax declarations, contributions to AHV/IV/EO (pension and social insurance), and in some sectors, licensing (e.g., gastronomy or healthcare).

Bureaucracy and Taxes

Starting a business in Switzerland is relatively straightforward, but certain requirements apply:

1. Social contributions – self-employed persons must pay into the pension fund and social insurance system themselves.
2. Taxes – rates vary by canton: corporate tax ranges approximately from 12% to 21% (combined federal, cantonal, and municipal).
3. Financial stability – especially for S and F holders, it must be proven that the business will generate sufficient income and not lead to reliance on social assistance.
4. Language and integration – knowledge of the local language (German, French, or Italian) is usually necessary to run a business.

Typical Fields Among Ukrainians

Ukrainians in Switzerland often choose areas that combine their skills with local demand:

• Gastronomy: cafés, restaurants, catering with Ukrainian cuisine.
• Care services: kindergartens, elderly care, educational courses.
• Creative industries: design, photography, IT services, crafts.
• Construction and renovation: growing demand for skilled workers among locals.
• IT and consulting: creation of small agencies and startups.

Such projects demonstrate that Ukrainians not only integrate but also contribute to the local economy.

The path from idea to business in Switzerland is open to Ukrainians but depends on their legal status. The best chances are for C and B holders, while S and F holders must go through additional bureaucratic steps.

Switzerland requires discipline and transparency from entrepreneurs but in return offers stability, legal protection, and access to the global market. For Ukrainians, entrepreneurship can be a key to integration, financial independence, and new opportunities.

Sources:

• SEM – State Secretariat for Migration
• ch.ch – Starting a business in Switzerland
• Swiss Federal Tax Administration
• SECO KMU Portal